The Sutra of Ksitigarbha's Fundamental Vows

A colloquial, easy-to-understand English translation, this sutra gives simple, direct instructions about how we sentient beings in this chaotic, troubled, and distressed era and world can make close, direct connections with a great enlightened being—Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Mahasattva—to be saved, protected, guided, and blessed. The Buddha foresaw the suffering and chaos in this Dharma-Declining Period that we are now living in and thus entrusted us to Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. “Ksitigarbha” is a Sanskrit word meaning “earth treasury”, reflecting the hidden treasures in the minds of all sentient beings, and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s specialty and merit is His “power of vow”—He vowed not to become a Buddha until all beings, including those in hell, are rescued. The narrator, Paul, is an inmate who was under maximum security incarceration. He has been rescued by the Three Jewels and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva multiple times when faced with distress, troubles in mind, critical illness, and lif